The Type 1 Lotus Watch

The Type 1 Lotus Watch is the first wrist watch to be created by
Lotus Design, the famous design studio responsible for all Lotus
current and future products, as well as numerous client programmes.

The quartz analogue chronograph watch is a bespoke timepiece which
is infused with Lotus core values through its appearance which is
highly technical, yet clean, stylish and elegant. However, the Type 1
Lotus watch is not a mere branding exercise; it was designed by Lotus
Design, and boasts beautifully crafted components. These include an
orange anodised aluminium crown guard mounted on a high power black
dial with the Lotus roundel, taking inspiration from precision
automotive and race parts used in the modern day Lotus sports car.

Reflecting on the design, Barney Hatt, Principal Designer of Lotus
Design, and originator of the Type 1 Lotus Watch, explains: "Lotus has
always been about innovative engineering solutions presented in the
most elegant form whilst avoiding superfluous detail. Highly machined
aesthetic forms underline the precise nature of the watch which are
balanced by the use of tactile materials."

A high precision quartz movement, a three-dial 1/10th of a second
stopwatch timing system (up to one hour), and a calendar mechanism
promote sophistication. The stainless steel casing completes the
technical flowing profile of the watch, and is finished with an etched
logo of Lotus Design on the rear of the case. This is equally
complemented by a comfortable and durable high-density resin
adjustable strap with a stainless steel buckle.

Commenting on the introduction of the first "in house" designed
Lotus watch, Russell Carr, Chief Designer of Lotus Design explains:
"This is the first time Lotus Design has had the opportunity to play
such a significant role in the development of a non-automotive
product. Whilst there are factors specific to watchmaking which we
have had to learn, we wanted the Type 1 Lotus Watch to be essentially
like our cars: to create desire through emotional and unique forms
that remain honest to the functionality of the product."

The Type 1 Lotus Watch, manufactured by Time Products (UK) Ltd,
will be available from 10 February, 2005 at a Recommended Retail Price
(RRP) of GBP 175 incl. VAT. Full specification and purchase details
can be found at the online Lotus webstore (www.lotuscarswebstore.co.uk)
or from the UK dealer network. The new timepiece will make its
official public debut on the Lotus stand (stand 1255) at the 76th
International Motor Show in Geneva between 28 February - 12 March,
2006.